A New Algorithm for Spectral Drift Calculation in a Gamma-Ray Spectrometer

Abstract

Spectral drift of any origin consisting of detectors and nuclear electronics affects the long-term stability in a gamma-ray spectrometer, which is essential to maintaining the high quality of gamma energy spectra. The feedback regulation according to the quantity of spectral drift can restore the system’s stability. A new algorithm for spectral drift calculation is given in this paper. A digital logic unit is developed in a FPGA chip based on the algorithm, and a MCU coordinating with it can fast calculate the spectral drift within only less than 110 instruction periods.